ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Oct. 31, 2026
Daily Devotional:
“A Heart Overflowing with Gratitude”
Philippians 1:3
"I thank my God every time I remember you."
When the Apostle Paul wrote these words to the church in Philippi, he wasn’t writing from a comfortable office or a restful retreat. He was writing from a cold, distant prison cell. Yet, whenever his mind drifted to the believers in Philippi, his heart wasn't filled with bitterness or anxiety—it was filled with pure joy and gratitude.
In many ways, the heart of a faithful pastor mirrors Paul’s heart for his ministry family. Pastoral ministryis often quiet, behind-the-scenes work. It consists of early mornings spent in prayer, late nights carrying the burdens of others, and countless moments spentlaboring in the Word to feed and protect the flock. It is a calling defined by love, sacrifice, and deep personal investment. As a congregation, it is easy to focus on what a pastor does for us: the sermons preached, the counsel given, the weddings officiated, and the hospital rooms visited. But Philippians 1:3 invites us to look deeper—at who our leaders are and the grace God reveals through them.
When Paul says, "I thank my God every time I remember you," he acknowledges that every good thing in his brothers and sisters was ultimately a gift from God. In the same way, a faithful pastor is God's gift to the church (Ephesians 4:11–12). When we thank God for our pastor, we are acknowledging the Lord’s goodness in providing a shepherd to guide, encourage, and care for our souls.
Gratitude shouldn't remain unsaid. Paul made sure to write his appreciation down so the Philippians couldread it, feel it, and be encouraged by it. Today is an opportunity to do the same for your pastor—to turn your fond memories and appreciation into deliberate praise to God and encouragement to your leader.
Send a note and take five minutes today to write a personal text, email, or hand-written card to yourpastor. Mention a specific memory or message that impacted your life, echoing Paul's words: "I thank God every time I think of you." Commit to prayer and make a habit of praying regularly for your pastor’s spiritualstrength, mental rest, and family life.
